Functional capacity assessment in aged diabetic patients

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with much comorbidity which compromise even more the aged functional capacity. This chronic illness is associated with the risk of disability to perform activities of daily living. The purpose of this study was to compare the functional capacity of diabetic and non-diabetic aged. It is a cross sectional study, that evaluated forty aged, dived in 2 groups, 20 diabetic (71.1±4.6 years) and 20 non-diabetic (71.7±4.4 years). The groups where similar in gender, age and BMI. To assess functional capacity, the Physical Performance Test Modified (PPTM) and the six minute walk test were performed. The rate of perceived exertion was examined through the Borg scale and the sensibility test through the perception of a group of six nylon Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments. Data were analyzed through Mann-Whitney test. The group of diabetic aged walked a shorter distance in the 6 minute walk test (396±55.6x481.5±73.1 m; p=0.0003) and showed worst sensibility test when compared to the non-diabetic elderly, but no difference was found in the PPTM. The diabetic elderly showed inferior physical ability compared to the non-diabetic elderly.